Adding Value with Home Improvements

We all ask ourselves this question every now and again: “Is it worth adding value with home improvements?”

With the eye-watering cost to move house, not to mention the stress involved, it is no surprise that so many of us choose to extend or modify our homes rather than sell, but what actually adds the most value to your home? The National Association of Estate Agents revealed the answer; adding a bedroom (usually by converting loft space) and enlarging a kitchen. Did you know a loft conversion could add around 10% to the value of your home? Letting in daylight could be a problem unless you opt for a rooflight. Imagine being able to sleep under the stars without the use of blinds (if your locations allows!).

Underground Extensions:
Underground extensions are becoming more popular, particularly in London where the market value can support the high cost of excavating under your home. These underground rooms do not need to be dark and gloomy. It is possible to harness natural daylight by fitting a walk-on rooflight flush with the ground level, letting natural light flood in to the area underneath.

Extending your Kitchen:

Extending your kitchen is something we would all love to do. An open plan kitchen / living area is such an interesting way to bring everyone together. The danger of extending a kitchen is that it can often result in long, dark spaces where the light struggles to get from one end to the other, leading to a reliance on stark artificial lighting. Below is a picture of a job where we installed a mono-pitched glazed roof along with bi-folding doors. This not only lets light flood in to the room, but also gives a much larger feel to the space.

Monopitch rooflight:
This monopitched rooflight draws all the attention towards the dining area, showcasing the room’s ability to entertain in a relaxed atmosphere.

Natural Light:
The choice of materials to use when adding natural light is crucial. uPVC is a lower cost, low maintenance option but doesn’t allow for the sleek, slim bars that aluminium does. Timber is another one to consider, allowing a lovely warmth and texture. Have a look at this stunning room that effortlessly combines the outdoors with the neutral tones and textures indoors.

For more information of our products, please visit our website: www.howellsglazing.co.uk
Sources;
National Association of Estate Agents, April 2014, Extending your way to greater sale value NAEA reveals most desirable home modifications.
http://www.naea.co.uk/media/610797/extending-your-way-to-greater-sale-value.pdf
Money Wise http://www.moneywise.co.uk/home-mortgage/selling/10-things-will-affect-the-value-your-home
This is Money http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-3014644/Home-improvements-add-value-pay-them.html